Neville Appointed to Hodgson's Coaching Team

Former England international Gary Neville is the latest addition to Roy Hodgson's backroom staff after signing a four-year deal with The Football Association.

The 37-year-old and ex-Manchester United defender has been working as a commentator with Sky Sports since announcing his retirement in February 2011.

Neville has 85 international caps to his name and is a veteran of two World Cup finals and three European Championships, and despite his media commitments, he admits the offer is something he couldn't refuse.

Neville hung up his boots in 2011.

"Roy asking me to be a part of his staff and to work with the national team is not only an honour but a very special moment for me," Neville said.

"I had absolutely no hesitation in accepting this role and I am relishing the opportunity to work alongside Roy and the team at the Euros and through to the next two tournaments"

Neville holds a UEFA A and B coaching license and has often been praised for his shrewd tactical analysis during his punditry role.

He joins coach Ray Lewington, who was appointed to Hodgson's team last week, and goalkeeping coaches Ray Clemence and Dave Watson ahead of the summer's European Championships.

Hodgson, who took charge of his final game at West Bromwich Albion in defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, said: "Gary has achieved so much in the game as a player with Manchester United and England.

"He has obtained UEFA coaching qualifications and will be tremendously respected by the players because of his vast experience as a player.

"At my first meeting with The FA, I explained that Gary was someone I wanted as part of my staff. I think it is very important we have a younger coach who knows the dressing room and is very experienced at international level.

"That he has represented England as a player at five major finals tournaments will make him an invaluable member of staff."

Neville has often been critical of the FA during and after his playing days, and just nine days ago urged Hodgson to appoint the right backroom team if he was gain immediate success, following the 64-year-old's appointment as Fabio Capello's successor at the start of the month.

Among the most decorated footballers in English football history, Neville has won every domestic trophy on more than one occasion, including the Champions League in 1999.

He captained the 1992 Youth Cup winning side at United which included fellow England internationals Nicky Butt, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Phil Neville, a group which went on to form the spine of the most successful club in the Premier League era.

The Old Trafford favourite is expected to continue his television role alongside his coaching commitments.